Location, location, location. Place candy up high, out of sight, so children aren't constantly reminded of forbidden treats.

Halloween dessert. Let children choose a few pieces after a meal when they are already full from healthy food and saliva production (which protects the teeth) has already been initiated from the meal.

Brush a little longer. Make it a game. Every time they eat a piece of candy they can run into the bathroom to brush their teeth, or supervise a longer brushing session each morning and night to combat candy damage.

Dr. Tough Guy (or Gal). If parents are struggling to take control of the candy situation at home, schedule a cleaning and let your dental professional be the tough guy/gal. At Scottsdale Dental Arts, we explain the pros and cons and give children options so they still feel they have some control of their hard-earned Halloween candy.

Dr. Jason McCargar, DMD, is from Scottsdale Dental Arts. For more information, visit www.ScottsdaleDentalArts.com. Here is his best and worst candies list and some tips for parents at Halloween.